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When there is a breakdown of the marriage, determining visitation rights becomes an important part of protecting the child’s stability and maintaining their relationship with both parents. In Stamford, the custody order addresses visitation. For the visitation plan to be enforceable, the court must approve it. Understanding the legal process and the factors the court considers can help you prepare for negotiations or court hearings and protect your rights.

At Dolan Divorce Lawyers PLLC, our talented visitation attorneys can guide you through every stage of determining visitation rights in Samford. From developing a schedule to advocating for arrangements that serve your child’s best interests, we support you every step of the way. Our approach combines family law experience with an understanding of family dynamics. This allows for a visitation plan that reflects the children’s specific needs and supports the parent-child relationship. 

What Are Factors the Court Considers in Determining Visitation Rights?

In Stamford, courts make decisions regarding parental visitation with the goal of serving the child’s best interests. They evaluate multiple factors, including:

  • The child’s age and developmental needs
  • Each parent’s ability to provide a safe and stable environment
  • The existing relationship between the child and each parent
  • The parents’ willingness and ability to communicate and cooperate
  • Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse
  • The impact of visitation on the child’s education and daily routines

Courts will also consider the recommendations of any court-appointed guardian ad litem or family relations officer who has evaluated the case.

Creating a Parenting Plan

Stamford Court must review and approve a parenting plan that outlines when and how each parent will spend time with the children. A comprehensive parenting plan typically includes:

  • Weekday and weekend schedules
  • Holiday and vacation arrangements
  • Transportation responsibilities and exchange locations
  • Provisions for communication between visits

The more detailed the plan, the less opportunity there is for confusion or conflict. For example, specifying exact pick-up and drop-off times—and who will provide transportation—can help prevent disagreements and ensure the schedule runs smoothly. On the other hand, if families need more flexibility due, for example, to shifting work schedules, then less specificity as to location and time exchanges may be appropriate. The goal is to end up with a parenting plan that works for the family’s current needs and can allow parents to adapt as circumstances change.

Addressing Special Circumstances

In certain situations, the court may need to make special provisions when deciding custodial time in Stamford. For example, parents of children with specific needs, such as medical conditions or developmental disabilities, may require customized visitation arrangements. These plans may include visits at locations near medical facilities or adjustments to accommodate therapy sessions.

In some cases, grandparents, stepparents, or other close relatives play a significant role in the child’s daily life. While Connecticut law primarily focuses on the rights of parents, courts can consider the role of extended family members when evaluating what is in the child’s best interests. For instance, if your children regularly spend time with a grandparent who lives with you, the court may structure visitation to preserve that bond. Including extended family connections in the parenting plan can help maintain important emotional support systems for the children.

Contact Dolan Divorce Lawyers in Stamford To Determine Your Visitation Rights

Determining visitation rights can be a contentious aspect of a custody case. At Dolan Divorce Lawyers, we work to protect your parenting time and to ensure that the arrangement supports your role in your child’s life. If you have questions about determining visitation rights in Stamford, call us today. We will guide you through the legal process and work toward an arrangement that prioritizes your child’s well-being.

Connecticut Family Lawyer | CT Family Law | Dolan Family Attorneys N/a
1700 Bedford Street Suite 202 Stamford CT 06905 (203) 599-7498